Lens array and optical module including the same

ABSTRACT

In an exemplary configuration, a lens array and a light module using the same include a first lens surface  11  and a second lens surface  12  formed into surface shapes such that by expanding the luminous flux diameter of light as the light travels from the first lens surface  11  toward the second lens surface  12 , a light spot on the second lens surface  12  is larger in diameter than a light spot on the first lens surface  11 , whereby the effects on optical performance by foreign objects and scratches on the lens surface can be mitigated, the criteria for the outward appearance of the lens surface can therefore be mitigated and the yield rate improved, and costs can be reduced.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a lens array and an optical moduleincluding the lens array. In particular, the present invention relatesto a lens array suitable for optically coupling a photoelectricconversion element and an optical transmission body, and an opticalmodule including the lens array.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, the application of so-called optical interconnectionhas become wide-spread as a technology for transmitting signals at highspeed within a system device, between devices, or between opticalmodules. Here, optical interconnection refers to a technology in whichoptical components are handled as if they are electronic components, andare mounted on motherboards, circuit boards, and the like used inpersonal computers, vehicles, optical transceivers, and the like.

An optical module used in optical interconnection such as this servesvarious purposes, such as internal connection for media converters andswitching hubs, and in-device and inter-device component connection foroptical transceivers, medical equipment, testing devices, video systems,high-speed computer clusters, and the like.

As an optical component applied to this type of optical module, there isan increasing demand for a lens array in which a plurality of lenseshaving a small diameter are disposed in parallel, as a compactlystructured component effective for actualizing multichannel opticalcommunication (refer to, for example, Patent Literature 1).

Here, the lens array is conventionally configured such that aphotoelectric conversion device including a plurality of light-emittingelements (such as a vertical cavity surface emitting laser [VCSEL]) orlight-receiving elements (such as photodetectors) can be attachedthereto, and a plurality of optical fibers serving as an opticaltransmission body can be attached thereto.

In a state in which the lens array is disposed between the photoelectricconversion device and the plurality of optical fibers in this way, thelens array is capable of performing multichannel optical transmission byoptically coupling light emitted from each light-emitting element of thephotoelectric conversion device with an end face of each optical fiber.The lens array is also capable of performing multichannel opticalreception by optically coupling light emitted from the end face of eachoptical fiber with each light-receiving element.

Here, the lens array of this type configures a sub-assembly by beingattached to a circuit board (chip-on-board [COB]) on which photoelectricconversion elements (light-emitting elements and light-receivingelements) serving as the photoelectric conversion device are mounted.

A sub-assembly such as this configures a full assembly by an opticalconnector housing the optical fibers, such as an MT connector, beingattached thereto. At this time, when an active optical cable (AOC) isconfigured, the optical connector is attached in a non-detachable state.On the other hand, when an optical transceiver is configured, theoptical connector is attached in a detachable state.

-   Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Laid-open Publication No.    2004-198470

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION Problem to be Solved by the Invention

In the lens array that is in the sub-assembly state, the lens faces onthe photoelectric conversion device side are shielded from the outsideby the structure of the sub-assembly. Therefore, adhesion of foreignmatter, such as dust, and formation of scratches on the lens facesrarely occur. Conversely, the lens faces on the optical fiber side arenot shielded from the outside because the optical connector is not yetattached. Therefore, adhesion of foreign matter and formation ofscratches tend to occur during attachment of the optical connector andthe like.

Because multichannel optical communication is required to be actualizedusing a compact lens array structure, the diameter dimension of eachlens face has certain restrictions. Therefore, the area occupancy offoreign matter and scratches in relation to the lens face becomesunavoidably high, as a matter of course.

As a result, a problem has occurred in the past in which foreign matterand scratches on the lens faces cause significant decrease in couplingefficiency between the photoelectric conversion elements and the opticalfibers.

Therefore, the present invention has been achieved in light of theabove-described issues. An object of the present invention is to providea lens array that is capable of reducing the effect foreign matter andscratches on a lens face have on optical performance, as well asrelaxing outer appearance standards of the lens face, improving yield,and reducing cost, and an optical module including the lens array.

Means for Solving Problem

To achieve the above-described object, a lens array according to a claim1 of the present invention is a lens array that is disposed between aphotoelectric conversion device and an optical transmission body, thephotoelectric conversion device in which a plurality of photoelectricconversion elements are disposed in an array, the lens array capable ofoptically coupling the plurality of photoelectric conversion elementsand the optical transmission body. The lens array includes: a pluralityof first lens faces that are disposed on a first surface of a lens arraymain body on the photoelectric conversion device side, such as to bearrayed in a predetermined array direction corresponding with theplurality of photoelectric conversion elements, and through which lightof each photoelectric conversion element that couples the plurality ofphotoelectric conversion elements and the optical transmission bodypasses; and a plurality of second lens faces that are disposed on asecond surface of the lens array main body on the optical transmissionbody side, such as to be arrayed along the array direction, and throughwhich the light passes. The first lens face or the second lens face isformed having a face shape that increases the light beam diameter of thelight from the first lens face side towards the second lens face side,thereby increasing a spot diameter of the light on the second lens faceto be larger than a spot diameter of the light on the first lens face.

In the invention according to the claim 1, the area occupancy of foreignmatter/scratches in relation to a light spot on the second lens face canbe reduced. Therefore, although the diameter dimension of the secondlens face is restricted, the effect foreign matter/scratches on thesecond lens face have on coupling efficiency can be effectively reduced.

In addition, a lens array according to a claim 2 is the lens arrayaccording to the claim 1 in which, further, the photoelectric conversionelement is a light-emitting element. The first lens face is formed intoa convex lens face or a planar lens face that converges the lightemitted from the light-emitting element with a weaker refractive powerthan that for collimation, or a concave lens face that disperses thelight of the light-emitting element.

In the invention according to the claim 2, when the light from thelight-emitting elements are coupled with the optical transmission body,a light beam that widens in diameter from the first lens face sidetowards the second lens face side can be obtained with certainty.Therefore, the effect foreign matter/scratches on the second lens facehave on the coupling efficiency of light to be coupled with the opticaltransmission body can be reduced with certainty.

Furthermore, a lens array according to a claim 3 is the lens arrayaccording to the claim 1 or 2 in which, further, the second surface isdisposed perpendicularly to the first surface. A reflective surface isdisposed between the first lens faces and the second lens faces, thereflective surface reflecting the light that has entered from either thefirst lens face side or the second lens face side towards the other ofthe first lens face side or the second lens face side.

In the invention according to the claim 3, the effect foreignmatter/scratches on the second lens face have on coupling efficiency canbe effectively reduced in a configuration suitable for enabling theoptical transmission body to extract light (transmission light) emittedfrom light-emitting elements mounted on a substrate from a directionparallel to the substrate, or enabling a light-receiving element mountedon a substrate to receive light (reception light) that is parallel tothe substrate and emitted from the optical transmission body.

Still further, a lens array according to a claim 4 is the lens arrayaccording to the claim 3 in which, further, the photoelectric conversiondevice is that in which at least one light-receiving element is disposedas the photoelectric conversion element, the light-receiving elementreceiving monitor light for monitoring the light emitted from at leastone of the plurality of light-emitting elements. The lens array furtherincludes: at least one third lens face that is disposed on the firstsurface and emits the monitor light that has entered from the inner sideof the lens array main body towards the light-receiving element; and anoptical control unit that is disposed on an optical path between thereflective surface and the second lens faces in the lens array mainbody, on which the light of each light-emitting element that has beenreflected by the reflective surface towards the second lens face side isincident, and that performs control such that the incident light of eachlight-emitting element is reflected at a predetermined reflection factorand advanced towards the third lens face side, and transmitted at apredetermined transmission factor and advanced towards the second lensface side, and at this time, reflects the light of at least one of theplurality of light-emitting elements as the monitor light.

In the invention according to the claim 4, the effect foreignmatter/scratches on the second lens face have on coupling efficiency canbe effectively reduced in a configuration suitable for adjustment of theoutput of light of the light-emitting elements.

In addition, a lens array according to a claim 5 is the lens arrayaccording to the claim 1 or 2 in which, further, the second surface isdisposed opposing the first surface. The optical axis of the first lensface and the optical axis of the second lens face are disposed on a sameline.

In the invention according to the claim 5, the effect foreignmatter/scratches on the second lens face have on coupling efficiency canbe effectively reduced in a configuration in which the second lens facesare disposed behind the first lens faces.

Furthermore, an optical module according to a claim 6 includes the lensarray according to any one of the claims 1 to 5 and the photoelectricconversion device according to the claim 1, 2, or 4.

In the invention according to the claim 6, the effect foreignmatter/scratches on the second lens face have on coupling efficiency canbe effectively reduced.

Effect of the Invention

In the present invention, the effect foreign matter/scratches on a lensface have on optical performance can be reduced, and in addition, outerappearance standards of the lens face can be relaxed, yield can beimproved, and cost can be reduced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 An overall configuration diagram of a lens array and an opticalmodule including the lens array according to a first embodiment of thepresent invention

FIG. 2 A bottom view of the lens array shown in FIG. 1

FIG. 3 A planar view of the lens array shown in FIG. 1

FIG. 4 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a firstvariation example according to the first embodiment

FIG. 5 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a secondvariation example according to the first embodiment

FIG. 6 A bottom view of FIG. 5

FIG. 7 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a thirdvariation example according to the first embodiment

FIG. 8 A bottom view of FIG. 7

FIG. 9 A planar view of FIG. 7

FIG. 10 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a fourthvariation example according to the first embodiment

FIG. 11 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a fifthvariation example according to the first embodiment

FIG. 12 An overall configuration diagram of a lens array and an opticalmodule including the lens array according to a second embodiment of thepresent invention

FIG. 13 A bottom view of the lens array shown in FIG. 12

FIG. 14 A right-side view of the lens array shown in FIG. 12

FIG. 15 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a firstvariation example according to the second embodiment

FIG. 16 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a secondvariation example according to the second embodiment

FIG. 17 A bottom view of FIG. 16

FIG. 18 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a thirdvariation example according to the second embodiment

FIG. 19 A bottom view of FIG. 18

FIG. 20 A right-side view of FIG. 18

FIG. 21 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a fourthvariation example according to the second embodiment

FIG. 22 A vertical cross-sectional view of a lens array in a fifthvariation example according to the second embodiment

FIG. 23 An overall configuration diagram of a lens array and an opticalmodule including the lens array according to a third embodiment of thepresent invention

FIG. 24 A bottom view of the lens array shown in FIG. 23

FIG. 25 A right-side view of the lens array shown in FIG. 23

FIG. 26 An enlarged vertical cross-sectional view of an optical controlunit

FIG. 27 An explanatory diagram for explaining a simulation in Example 1

FIG. 28 A coupling efficiency characteristics graph indicating theresults of the simulation in Example 1

FIG. 29 A transmission factor characteristics graph indicating theresults of the simulation in Example 1

FIG. 30 An explanatory diagram for explaining a simulation in Example 2

FIG. 31 A coupling efficiency characteristics graph indicating theresults of the simulation in Example 2

FIG. 32 A transmission factor characteristics graph indicating theresults of the simulation in Example 2

BEST MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION First Embodiment

A lens array and an optical module including the lens array according toa first embodiment of the present invention will hereinafter bedescribed with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 11.

FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an overview of asub-assembly 1 serving as the optical module according to the firstembodiment, together with a vertical cross-sectional view of a lensarray 2 according to the first embodiment. In addition, FIG. 2 is abottom view of the lens array 2 shown in FIG. 1. Furthermore, FIG. 3 isa planar view of the lens array 2 shown in FIG. 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the lens array 2 according to the first embodimentis disposed between a photoelectric conversion device 3 and opticalfibers 5.

Here, the photoelectric conversion device 3 has a plurality oflight-emitting elements 7 on a surface of a semiconductor substrate 6facing the lens array 2, the light emitting-elements 7 emitting laserlight La in a direction perpendicular to this surface (upward directionin FIG. 1). The light-emitting elements 7 configure the above-describedvertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL). In FIG. 1, thelight-emitting elements 7 are formed in an array along a directionperpendicular to the surface of the paper on which FIG. 1 is printed.For example, the photoelectric conversion device 3 such as this isdisposed opposing the lens array 2 in a state in which the semiconductorsubstrate 6 is in contact with the lens array 2. In addition, forexample, the photoelectric conversion device 3 is attached to the lensarray 2 by a known fixing means (not shown), such as a clamp spring,thereby configuring the sub-assembly 1 together with the lens array 2.

In addition, the same number of optical fibers 5 according to the firstembodiment as the number of light-emitting elements 7 are arranged. Theoptical fibers 5 are disposed in an array along the directionperpendicular to the surface of the paper on which FIG. 1 is printed inFIG. 1, at the same pitch as the light-emitting elements 7. The opticalfibers 5 are, for example, multi-mode optical fibers 5 that have thesame dimensions as one another. A portion of each optical fiber 5 on anend face 5 a side is held within a multi-core integrated opticalconnector 10, such as the above-described MT connector. For example, theoptical fibers 5 such as these are attached to the lens array 2 by aknown fixing means (such as a clamp spring; not shown) in a state inwhich the end face of the optical connector 10 on the lens array 2 sideis in contact with the lens array 2.

The lens array 2 optically couples each light-emitting element 7 withthe end face 5 a of each optical fiber 5 in a state in which the lensarray 2 is disposed between the photoelectric conversion device 3 andthe optical fibers 5 such as those described above.

The lens array 2 will be described in further detail. As shown in FIG.1, the lens array 2 (lens array main body) is composed of a lighttransmitting material (for example, a resin material such aspolyetherimide) and has a substantially planar outer shape.

A lower end surface 2 a of the lens array 2 such as that described abovefunctions as a first surface to which the photoelectric conversiondevice 3 is attached. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a plurality (12lens faces) of first lens faces 11 having a circular planar shape areformed on the lower end surface 2 a. The number of first lens faces 11is the same as the number of light-emitting elements 7. Here, as shownin FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a section 2 a′ of the lower end surface 2 a thathas a substantially rectangular planar shape and is in a predeterminedarea in the center of the lower end surface 2 a is formed into arecessed plane (referred to, hereinafter, as a lens formation surface 2a′) that recesses further upwards than a peripheral section 2 a″ with acounterbore section 2A therebetween. The plurality of first lens faces11 are formed on the lens formation surface 2 a′ such as this. However,the lens formation surface 2 a′ is formed in parallel with theperipheral section 2 a″. In addition, the first lens faces 11 aredisposed in an array in a predetermined array direction (the directionperpendicular to the surface of the paper on which FIG. 1 is printed inFIG. 1, and a vertical direction in FIG. 2) corresponding with thelight-emitting elements 7. Furthermore, the first lens faces 11 areformed having the same dimensions as one another, and are formed at thesame pitch as the light-emitting elements 7. The first lens faces 11that are adjacent to each other in the array direction may be formed inan adjacent state in which the respective circumferential edge portionsare in contact with each other. In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, anoptical axis OA(1) of each first lens face 11 preferably matches acenter axis of the laser light La emitted from each light-emittingelement 7 corresponding with each first lens face 11. More preferably,the optical axis OA(1) of each first lens face 11 is perpendicular withthe lower end surface 2 a.

On the other hand, an upper end surface 2 b of the lens array 2 thatopposes the lower end surface 2 a functions as a second surface to whichthe plurality of optical fibers 5 are attached. As shown in FIG. 1 andFIG. 3, a plurality of second lens faces 12 having a circular planarshape are formed on the upper end surface 2 b. The number of second lensfaces 12 is the same as the number of first lens faces 11. Here, asshown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, a section 2 b′ of the upper end surface 2 bthat has a substantially rectangular planar shape and is in apredetermined area in the center of the upper end surface 2 b is formedinto a recessed plane (referred to, hereinafter, as a lens formationsurface 2 b′) that recesses further downwards in FIG. 1 than aperipheral section 2 b″ that surrounds the section 2 b′ with acounterbore section 2B therebetween. The plurality of second lens faces12 are formed on the lens formation surface 2 b′ such as this. However,the lens formation surface 2 b′ is formed in parallel with theperipheral section 2 b″. In addition, the plurality of second lens faces12 are disposed in an array in the same direction as the array directionof the end faces 5 a of the optical fibers 5, or in other words, thearray direction of the first lens faces 11. Furthermore, the second lensfaces 12 are formed having the same dimensions as one another, and areformed at the same pitch as the first lens faces 11. The second lensfaces 12 that are adjacent to each other in the array direction may beformed in an adjacent state in which the respective circumferential edgeportions are in contact with each other. In addition, an optical axisOA(2) of each second lens face 12 is preferably positioned on the sameaxis as the center axis of the end face 5 a of each optical fiber 5corresponding with each second lens face 12. More preferably, theoptical axis OA(2) of each second lens face 12 is perpendicular with theupper end surface 2 b. Furthermore, the optical axis OA(2) of eachsecond lens face 12 is disposed on the same line as the optical axisOA(1) of each first lens face 11 corresponding with each second lensface 12.

According to the first embodiment, each lens face 11 increases the lightbeam diameter of the laser light La from the first lens face 11 sidetowards the second lens face 12 side, thereby forming the planar shapeof the spot diameter (diameter of the outer circumferential edge of theprojection area of the laser light La; the same applies hereafter) ofthe laser light La on the second lens face 12 to be larger than the spotdiameter of the laser light La on the first lens face 11. Specifically,each first lens face 11 is formed into a convex lens face having aweaker refractive power (in other words, a greater radius of curvature)than a collimate lens face. The convex lens face may be spherical oraspherical. However, the face shape of the first lens face 11 isdesigned to allow the spot (projection area) of the laser light La onthe second lens face 12 to fit within the effective diameter of thesecond lens face 12. In designing such a face shape, it goes withoutsaying that the distance between the first lens face 11 and the secondlens face 12 (lens thickness), the distance between the light-emittingelement 7 and the first lens face 11, the beam dispersion angle (inother words, NA) of the laser light La emitted from the light-emittingelement 7, and the like are taken into consideration, in addition to theeffective diameter of the second lens face 12.

As shown in FIG. 1, the laser light La emitted from each light-emittingelement 7 corresponding with each first lens face 11 is incident on eachfirst lens face 11 such as this. Each first lens face 11 advances theincident laser light La of each light-emitting element 7 into the lensarray 2. At this time, the laser light La of each light-emitting element7 is converged with a weaker refractive power than that for collimationbecause of the face shape of each first lens face 11. As a result, thelight beam diameter of the laser light La of each light-emitting element7 increases from the first lens face 11 side towards the second lensface 12 side.

On the other hand, the second lens face 12 is formed into a spherical oraspherical convex lens face. As shown in FIG. 1, the laser light La ofeach light-emitting element that has been converged by each first lensface 11 corresponding with each second lens face 12 is incident on eachsecond lens face 12. At this time, the spot diameter of the laser lightLa on the second lens face 12 is larger than the spot diameter of thelaser light La on the first lens face 11. Each second lens face 12 thenconverges the incident laser light La of each light-emitting element 7and emits the laser light La towards the end face 5 a of each opticalfiber 5 corresponding with each second lens face 12.

In this way, each light-emitting element 7 and the end face 5 a of eachoptical fiber 5 are optically coupled by first lens face 11 and thesecond lens face 12.

In the above-described configuration, the area occupancy of foreignmatter/scratches in relation to the light spot on the second lens face12 can be reduced in a configuration in which the second lens face 12 isdisposed behind the first lens face 11. As a result, while the diameterdimension of the second lens face 12 is restricted, the effect foreignmatter/scratches on the second lens face 12 has on coupling efficiencycan be effectively reduced.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, a pair of through holes 14 that passthrough the lower end surface 2 a and the upper end surface 2 b arebored in the peripheral section 2 a″ of the lower end surface 2 a, onboth outer side positions in relation to the lens formation surface 2 a′in the array direction of the first lens faces 11. The through holes 14are used for mechanical positioning when the photoelectric conversiondevice 3 and the optical fibers 5 are attached, as a result of pins (notshown) respectively provided on the photoelectric conversion device 3and the optical connector 10 being inserted therein. However, pins maybe provided instead of the through holes 14, and through holes orbottomed-holes may be provided on the photoelectric conversion device 3side and the optical connector 10 side.

According to the first embodiment, various variation examples such asthose below may be applied to the basic configuration shown in FIG. 1 toFIG. 3.

First Variation Example

For example, as shown in FIG. 4, each first lens face 11 may be aspherical or aspherical concave lens face. In this instance, the laserlight La of each light-emitting element 7 that has entered each firstlens face 11 is dispersed by each first lens face 11. As a result, thelight beam diameter increases as the laser light La of eachlight-emitting element 7 advances towards the second lens face 12.Therefore, in a manner similar to that in the basic configuration, thespot diameter of the laser light La on each second lens face 12 can bemade larger than the spot diameter of the laser light La on each firstlens face 11 in the first variation example as well. As a result, theeffect foreign matter/scratches on the second lens face 12 has oncoupling efficiency can be effectively reduced.

Second Variation Example

In addition, as shown in the vertical cross-sectional view in FIG. 5 andthe bottom view in FIG. 6, each first lens face 11 may be formed into aplanar lens face. In this instance, the first lens faces 11 may not beable to be differentiated in terms of outer appearance. However, interms of design, the first lens faces 11 are clearly differentiated byrespective areas (broken line sections in FIG. 6).

In the second variation example, the laser light La of eachlight-emitting element 7 that has entered each first lens face 11 isconverged by each first lens face 11 with a weaker refractive power thanthat for collimation. As a result, the light beam diameter is increasedas the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7 advances towardsthe second lens face 12 side. Therefore, working effects similar tothose of the basic configuration can be achieved in the second variationexample as well.

Third Variation Example

In addition, as shown in the vertical cross-sectional view in FIG. 7,the bottom view in FIG. 8, and the planar view in FIG. 9, the number offirst lens faces 11 and the number of second lens faces 12 in the basicconfiguration may be increased. Specifically, in the third variationexample, two rows of 12 first lens faces 11 and two rows of 12 secondlens faces 12 are disposed, thereby actualizing 24-channel opticalcommunication.

Fourth Variation Example

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10, the number of first lens faces 11 andthe number of second lens faces 12 in the first variation example may beincreased to two rows of 12 first lens faces 11 and two rows of 12second lens faces 12 (24 each).

Fifth Variation Example

Still further, as shown in FIG. 11, the number of first lens faces 11and the number of second lens faces 12 in the second variation examplemay be increased to two rows of 12 first lens faces 11 and two rows of12 second lens faces 12.

Second Embodiment

Next, a lens array and an optical module including the lens arrayaccording to a second embodiment of the present invention will bedescribed with reference to FIG. 12 to FIG. 22.

Sections of which the basic configuration is the same or similar to thataccording to the first embodiment are described using the same referencenumbers.

FIG. 12 is an overall configuration diagram of an overview of asub-assembly 21 according to the second embodiment, together with avertical cross-sectional view of a lens array 22. In addition, FIG. 13is a bottom view of the lens array 22 shown in FIG. 12. Furthermore,FIG. 14 is a right-side view of the lens array 22 shown in FIG. 12.

As shown in FIG. 12, the lens array 22 according to the secondembodiment is disposed between the photoelectric conversion device 3 andthe optical fibers 5 in a manner similar to that according to the firstembodiment. In addition, the basic configurations of the photoelectricconversion device 3 and the optical fibers 5 are similar to thoseaccording to the first embodiment.

However, the sub-assembly 21 according to the second embodiment isconfigured so that the laser light La emitted from each light-emittingelement 7 mounted on the substrate 6 is extracted from a directionparallel to the substrate 6 at the end face 5 a of each optical fiber 5.

A specific configuration is as follows.

In other words, as shown in FIG. 12, the lens array 22 (lens array mainbody) is composed of a light-transmitting material (for example, a resinmaterial such as polyetherimide) and has a substantially rectangularparallelepiped outer shape.

A lower end surface 22 a of the lens array 22 such as this functions asa first surface to which the photoelectric conversion device 3 isattached. As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, a plurality (12 lens faces)of first lens faces 11 having a circular planar shape are disposed in anarray along the light-emitting elements 7 on the lower end surface 2 a.The number of first lens faces 11 is the same as the number oflight-emitting elements 7. In a manner similar to that according to thefirst embodiment, the first lens faces 11 are formed on a lens formationsurface 22 a′ that is a recessed plane formed in a predetermined area inthe center of the lower end surface 22 a.

On the other hand, according to the second embodiment, a right endsurface 22 c of the lens array 22 that is disposed perpendicularly tothe lower end surface 22 a functions as a second surface to which theplurality of optical fibers 5 are attached. In other words, as shown inFIG. 12 and FIG. 14, a plurality of second lens faces 12 having acircular planar shape are formed on the upper end surface 2 b. Thenumber of second lens faces 12 is the same as the number of first lensfaces 11. In a manner similar to that according to the first embodiment,the second lens faces 12 are formed on a lens formation surface 22 c′that is a recessed plane formed in a predetermined area in the center ofthe right end surface 22 c.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12, a reflective surface 23 is formed in arecessing manner on an upper end surface 22 b of the lens array 22. Thereflective surface 23 is composed of a sloped plane that has apredetermined slope angle in relation to the lower end surface 22 a andthe right end surface 22 c. The slope angle of the reflective surface 23may be 45° in relation to both the lower end surface 22 a and the rightend surface 22 c.

In a manner similar to that in the basic configuration according to thefirst embodiment, each first lens face 11 is formed into a convex lensface that increases the light beam diameter of the laser light La fromthe first lens face 11 side towards the second lens face 12 side,thereby increasing the spot diameter of the laser light La on the secondlens face 12 to be larger than the spot diameter of the laser light Laon the first lens face 11.

In the above-described configuration according to the second embodiment,as shown in FIG. 12, the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7that is emitted upwards from each light-emitting element 7 is incidenton each first lens face 11. As a result of the face shape of each firstlens face 11, each first lens face 11 converges the laser light La ofeach light-emitting element 7 with a weaker refractive power than thatfor collimation. Therefore, the light beam diameter of the laser lightLa of each light-emitting element 7 is increased from the first lensface 11 side towards the second lens face 12 side. After the laser lightLa of each light-emitting element 7 is projected with a large spotdiameter within the effective diameter of each second lens face 12, thelaser light La is then emitted from each second lens face 12 towards theend face 5 a of each optical fiber 5. In the process, as shown in FIG.12, the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7 that has beenconverged by each first lens face 11 is incident on the reflectivesurface 23 at an angle of incidence that is greater than the criticalangle from below. The reflective surface 23 then totally reflects theincident laser light La of the light-emitting element 7 towards eachsecond lens face 12.

According to the second embodiment, the effect foreign matter/scratcheson the second lens face 12 has on coupling efficiency can be effectivelyreduced in a configuration suitable for extracting the laser light Laemitted from the light-emitting elements 7 mounted on the substrate 6from a direction parallel to the substrate 6 at the end faces 5 a of theoptical fibers 5.

According to the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12 to FIG. 14, apin 14′ is erected on the right end surface 22 c side for mechanicalpositioning of the optical fibers 5. The pin 14′ is inserted into athrough hole or a bottomed-hole (not shown) provided on the connector 10side, and is thereby used to position the optical fibers 5.

In a manner similar to that according to the first embodiment, accordingto the second embodiment as well, various variation examples such asthose below may be applied to the basic configuration shown in FIG. 12to FIG. 14.

First Variation Example

For example, as shown in FIG. 15, each first lens face 11 may be formedinto a spherical or aspherical convex lens face.

Second Variation Example

In addition, as shown in the vertical cross-sectional view in FIG. 16and the bottom view in FIG. 17, each first lens face 11 may be formedinto a planar lens face.

Third Variation Example

Furthermore, as shown in the vertical cross-sectional view in FIG. 18,the bottom view in FIG. 19, and the right-side view in FIG. 20, thenumber of first lens faces 11 and the number of second lens faces 12 inthe basic configuration may be increased to two rows of 12 first lensfaces 11 and two rows of 12 second lens faces 12 (24 each).

Fourth Variation Example

Still further, as shown in FIG. 21, the number of first lens faces 11and the number of second lens faces 12 in the first variation examplemay be increased to two rows of 12 first lens faces 11 and two rows of12 second lens faces 12.

Fifth Variation Example

In addition, as shown in FIG. 22, the number of first lens faces 11 andthe number of second lens faces 12 in the second variation example maybe increased to two rows of 12 first lens faces 11 and two rows of 12second lens faces 12.

Third Embodiment

Next, a lens array and an optical module including the lens arrayaccording to a third embodiment of the present invention will bedescribed with reference to FIG. 23 to FIG. 26.

Sections of which the basic configuration is the same or similar to thataccording to the first embodiment are described using the same referencenumbers.

FIG. 23 is an overall configuration diagram of an overview of asub-assembly 31 according to the third embodiment, together with avertical cross-sectional view of a lens array 32. In addition, FIG. 24is a bottom view of the lens array 32 shown in FIG. 23. Furthermore,FIG. 25 is a right-side view of the lens array 32 shown in FIG. 23.

As shown in FIG. 23, the lens array 32 according to the third embodimentis disposed between the photoelectric conversion device 3 and theoptical fibers 5 in a manner similar to that according to the firstembodiment and the second embodiment. In addition, the basicconfiguration of the optical fibers 5 is similar to that according tothe first embodiment and the second embodiment.

In a manner similar to that according to the second embodiment, thesub-assembly 31 according to the third embodiment is configured so thatthe laser light La emitted from each light-emitting element 7 mounted onthe substrate 6 is extracted from a direction parallel to the substrate6 at the end face 5 a of each optical fiber 5.

However, unlike those according to the first embodiment and the secondembodiment, the sub-assembly 31 according to the third embodiment isconfigured to enable feedback of some of the laser light La emitted fromthe light-emitting elements 7 and adjustment of the output of the laserlight La (such as intensity and amount of light.

A specific configuration is as follows.

In other words, as shown in FIG. 23, the photoelectric conversion device3 has a plurality of light-receiving elements 8 on the surface of thesemiconductor substrate 6 on the lens array 32 side, in positions to theright side of the light-emitting elements 7 in FIG. 23. Thelight-receiving elements 8 receive monitor light M for monitoring theoutput of the laser light L emitted from the light-emitting elements 7.The number of light-receiving elements 8 is the same as the number oflight-emitting elements 7. The light-receiving elements 8 may bephotodetectors. Furthermore, electronic components (not shown), such asa control circuit that controls the output of the laser light La emittedfrom the light-emitting elements 7 based on the intensity and the amountof light of the monitor light M received by the light-receiving elements8, are mounted on the surface of the semiconductor substrate 6 on thelens array 32 side. The electronic components are electrically connectedto the light-emitting elements 7 and the light-receiving elements 8 bywiring.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 23, the lens array 32 has a lens arraymain body 34 that is composed of a light-transmitting material and has asubstantially rectangular parallelepiped outer shape.

As shown in FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, the lens array main body 34 has aplurality (12 lens faces) of first lens faces 11 having a circularplanar shape on a lower end surface 34 a that serves as a first surfaceto which the photoelectric conversion device 3 is attached. The numberof first lens faces 11 is the same as the number of light-emittingelements 7. In a manner similar to that according to the firstembodiment, the first lens faces 11 are formed in an array along thelight-emitting elements 7, on a lens formation surface 34 a′ that is arecessed plane formed in a predetermined area in the center of the lowerend surface 34 a.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 23 and FIG. 25, the lens array main body34 has a plurality of second lens faces 12 on a right end surface 34 cin FIG. 1 that serves as a second surface to which the optical fibers 5are attached. The number of second lens faces 12 is the same as thenumber of first lens faces 11. In a manner similar to that according tothe first embodiment, the second lens faces 12 are formed in an array ona lens formation surface 34 c′ that is a recessed plane formed in apredetermined area in the center of the right end surface 34 c.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 23, in a manner similar to that accordingto the first embodiment, a reflective surface 23 is formed in arecessing manner on an upper end surface 34 b of the lens array mainbody 34. The reflective surface 23 is composed of a sloped plane thathas a predetermined slope angle in relation to the lower end surface 34a and the right end surface 34 c. The slope angle of the reflectivesurface 23 may be 45° in relation to both the lower end surface 34 a andthe right end surface 34 c.

Still further, as shown in FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, third lens faces 13 areformed in the lens formation area 34 a′ of the lower end surface 34 a ina position near the right-hand side of the first lens faces 11. Thenumber of third lens faces 13 is the same as the number of thelight-receiving elements 8 (according to the third embodiment, thenumber of third lens faces 13 is also the same as the number oflight-emitting elements 7, the number of optical fibers 5, the number offirst lens faces 11, and the number of second lens faces 12). The thirdlens faces 13 are disposed in an array in a predetermined arraydirection corresponding with the light-receiving elements 8, or in otherwords, the same direction as the lens array direction. In addition, thethird lens faces 13 are formed at the same pitch as the light-receivingelements 8. An optical axis OA(3) of each third lens face 13 preferablymatches the center axis of a light-receiving surface of eachlight-receiving element 8 corresponding with each third lens face 13.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 23, an optical control unit 4 is disposedon the optical path between the reflective surface 23 and the secondlens faces 12.

The optical control unit 4 is configured by a prism placement recessingsection 41, a prism 42, a reflective/transmissive layer 43, and a fillermaterial 44. The prism placement recessing section 41 is formed in arecessing manner on the upper end surface 34 b of the lens array mainbody 34, in a position on the right of the reflective surface 23 that isalso a position opposing the third lens faces 13. The prism 42 is placedwithin the recessing section 41. The reflective/transmissive layer 43 isdisposed on the prism 42. The filler material 44 fills the area betweenthe prism placement recessing section 41 and the prism 42.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 23, a left inner surface 41 a and aright inner surface 41 b of the prism placement recessing section 41 areformed parallel to the lens formation surface 34 c′ of the right endsurface 34 c.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 23, the prism 42 has an incident surface42 a for the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7 in aposition facing the left inner surface 41 a of the prism placementrecessing section 41 from the right side. As shown in FIG. 23, theincident surface 42 a is formed into a sloped surface such that a lowerend portion thereof is positioned further to the right side than anupper end portion thereof. The slope angle of the incident surface 42 ais preferably 45° in the clockwise direction in FIG. 23, with referenceto the lower end surface 34 a. In addition, as shown in FIG. 23, theprism 42 has an outgoing surface 42 b for the laser light La of eachlight-emitting element 7 in a position opposing the incident surface 42a from the right side. As shown in FIG. 23, the outgoing surface 42 bopposes the right inner surface 41 b of the prism placement recessingsection 41 in a parallel manner, with a predetermined spacetherebetween. However, a portion of the right end surface of the prism42 that is above the outgoing surface 42 b may be placed in closecontact with the right inner surface 41 b of the prism placementrecessing section 41. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 23, a plate-shapedshoulder section 45 is integrally formed in an upper portion of theprism 42. The shoulder section 45 is provided for convenience, such asin handling the compact prism 42 (for placement into the prism placementrecessing section 41) and to prevent infiltration of foreign matter(such as dust) into the prism placement recessing section 41.Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 23, a bottom surface 42 c of the prism 42connected between the lower end portion of the incident surface 42 a andthe lower end portion of the outgoing surface 42 b is disposed in aposition above an inner bottom surface 41 c of the prism placementrecessing section 41.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 23, the above-describedreflective/transmissive layer 43 is on the incident surface 42 a of theprism 42. The reflective/transmissive layer 43 may be formed by asingle-layer film composed of a single metal, such as Ni, Cr, or Al.Alternatively, the reflective/transmissive layer 43 may be formed by adielectric multilayer film obtained by a plurality of dielectrics havingdiffering dielectric constants (such as TiO₂ and SiO₂) being alternatelystacked. Moreover, the reflective/transmissive layer 43 may be formed bythe above-described metal single-layer film or dielectric multilayerfilm being coated on the incident surface 42 a. A known coatingtechnique, such as Inconel deposition, can be used for coating. When acoating technique such as this is used, the reflective/transmissivelayer 43 can be formed into a very thin thickness (such as 1 μm orless).

Still further, as shown in FIG. 23, the above-described filler material44 completely fills the space between the left inner surface 41 a of theprism placement recessing section 41 and the reflective/transmissivelayer 43, and the space between the right inner surface 41 b of theprism placement recessing section 41 and the outgoing surface 42 b ofthe prism 42. In addition, the filler material 44 is composed of anadhesive, such as an acrylate adhesive or an epoxy adhesive serving asan ultraviolet-curable resin. The prism 42 is stably adhered within theprism placement recessing section 41.

In addition, the lens array main body 34, the prism 42, and the fillermaterial 44 are formed such that the difference in refraction indextherebetween is a predetermined value (such as 0.05) or less. Forexample, when the lens array main body 34 and the prism 42 are composedof Ultem (registered trademark), manufactured by SABIC, as thepolyetherimide, the refractive index of the lens array main body 34 andthe prism 42 is 1.64 (difference in refractive index 0.00) for lighthaving a wavelength of 850 nm. As the corresponding filler material 44,LPC1101 manufactured by Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc. can beused. The refractive index of LPC1101 is 1.66 for light having awavelength of 850 nm, calculated based on the refractive index and theAbbe number in relation to the d line of values published by themanufacturer.

Furthermore, in a manner similar to that in the basic configurationaccording to the first embodiment, each lens face 11 is formed into aconvex lens face that increases the light beam diameter of the laserlight La from the first lens face 11 side towards the second lens face12 side, thereby increasing the spot diameter of the laser light La onthe second lens face 12 to be larger than the spot diameter of the laserlight La on the first lens face 11.

In the above-described configuration according to the third embodiment,as shown in FIG. 23, first, the laser light La of each light-emittingelement 7 that is emitted upwards from each light-emitting element 7 isincident on each first lens face 11. As a result of the face shape ofeach first lens face 11, each first lens face 11 converges the laserlight La of each light-emitting element 7 with a weaker refractive powerthan that for collimation. Therefore, the light beam diameter of thelaser light La of each light-emitting element 7 is increased from thefirst lens face 11 side towards the advancing direction.

Next, the laser light La that has been converged by each first lens face11 is incident on the reflective surface 23 at an angle of incidencethat is greater than the critical angle. The reflective surface 23totally reflects the incident laser light La of each light-emittingelement 7 towards the optical control unit 4.

Next, the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7 that has beentotally reflected by the reflective surface 23 is incident on theoptical control unit 4, while increasing in light beam diameter as thelaser light La advances. At this time, because the difference inrefractive index between the lens array main body 34 and the fillermaterial 44 is small, as shown in FIG. 26, refraction of the laser lightLa when entering the border between the left inner surface 41 a of theand the filler material 44 in the prism placement recessing section 41does not occur.

Next, the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7 that hasadvanced through the filler material 44 is incident on thereflective/transmissive layer 43, while increasing in light beamdiameter as the laser light La advances. The reflective/transmissivelayer 43 then reflects the laser light La of each light-emitting element7 that has entered in this way towards the third lens face 13 side at apredetermined reflection factor. In addition, thereflective/transmissive layer 43 transmits the laser light La of eachlight-emitting element 7 that has entered in this way towards theincident surface 42 a side of the prism 42. As the reflection factor andthe transmission factor of the reflective/transmissive layer 43, desiredvalues can be set depending on the material, thickness, and the like ofthe reflective/transmissive layer 43, to the extent that an amount ofmonitor light M sufficient for monitoring the output of the laser lightLa can be obtained. As shown in FIG. 23, during reflection ortransmission such as this, the reflective/transmissive layer 43 reflectssome (light amounting to the reflection factor) of the laser light La ofeach light-emitting element 7 that has entered thereflective/transmissive layer 43 as the monitor light M of eachlight-emitting element 7 corresponding with each light-emitting element7, towards the third lens face 13 corresponding with each beam ofmonitor light M.

Furthermore, the monitor light M of each light-emitting element 7reflected by the reflective/transmissive layer 43 in this way advancesthrough the filler material 44 towards the third lens face 13 side, andsubsequently enters the inner bottom surface 41 c of the prism placementrecessing section 41. Then, the monitor light M of each light-emittingelement 7 that has entered the inner bottom surface 41 c advancesthrough the lens array main body 34, and is emitted from each third lensface 13 towards each light-receiving element 8 corresponding with eachthird lens face 13.

On the other hand, the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7that has been transmitted by the reflective/transmissive layer 43 entersthe incident surface 42 a of the prism 42 immediately aftertransmittance and advances towards the second lens face 12 side on theoptical path within the prism 42. In addition, the light beam diameterof the laser light La increases as the laser light La advances.

At this time, because the reflective/transmissive layer 43 is very thin,the refraction that occurs when the laser light La of eachlight-emitting element 7 is transmitted through thereflective/transmissive layer 43 is small enough to be ignored.

Next, the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7 that hasadvanced through the prism 42 is emitted outside of the prism 42 fromthe outgoing surface 42 b of the prism 42. The laser light La passesthrough the filler material 44 and enters the right inner surface 41 bof the prism placement recessing section 41. At this time, because thedifference in refractive index among the prism 42, the filler material44, and the lens array main body 34 is small, as shown in FIG. 26,refraction and Fresnel reflection of the laser light La of eachlight-emitting element 7 does not occur.

Next, the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7 advancestowards the second lens face 12 side on the optical path within the lensarray main body 34 subsequent to the right inner surface 41 b. Inaddition, the light beam diameter of the laser light La increases as thelaser light La advances.

After the laser light La of each light-emitting element 7 is projectedwith a large spot diameter within the effective diameter of each secondlens face 12, the laser light La is then emitted from each second lensface 12 towards the end face 5 a of each optical fiber 5.

According to the third embodiment, the effect foreign matter/scratcheson the second lens face 12 has on coupling efficiency can be effectivelyreduced in a configuration suitable for adjusting the output of thelaser light La of the light-emitting elements 7.

The variation examples applied to the first embodiment and the secondembodiment can also be applied accordingly to the third embodiment.

Example 1

Next, in Example 1, simulation was conducted regarding the effectforeign matter on the second lens face 12 has on coupling efficiencybetween a VCSEL and optical fibers, while changing a radius of curvature(center radius of curvature) R of the first lens faces 11.

In the simulation, a type of lens array such as that according to thefirst embodiment in which the second lens faces 12 are disposed behindthe first lens faces 11 was used.

In addition, the VCSEL has φ0.01 mm, NA 0.15 (where the light beamdiameter is the diameter of a peripheral edge portion in which theintensity decreases to 1/e² of the maximum intensity), and a usagewavelength of 850 nm. The optical fiber 5 has φ0.05 mm and NA 0.20.

Furthermore, the distance between the VCSEL and the first lens faces 11is 0.14 mm.

Still further, in the simulation, as shown in FIG. 27, foreign matterthat is φ0.02 mm in size is assumed to be present in a position P₁(x=0.00 mm, y=0.015 mm) that is 0.015 mm from the center (x=0.00 mm,y=0.00 mm) of the second lens 12.

In addition, a defocus position on the optical fiber 5 side is aposition at which the coupling efficiency is optimal when no foreignmatter is present.

The results of the simulation conducted under the above-describedconditions are shown in Table 1, below, and FIG. 28 and FIG. 29.

TABLE 1 No foreign matter Foreign matter present Coupling Trans-Coupling Trans- efficiency mission efficiency mission R(mm) Beam shape(dB) factor (%) (dB) factor (%) 0.08 Collimated −0.52 88.7 −1.32 73.8light 0.10 Spread −0.52 88.6 −1.15 76.8 converged light 0.12 Spread−0.54 88.4 −1.06 78.3 converged light 0.14 Spread −0.52 88.6 −0.97 79.9converged light

However, in FIG. 28, the horizontal axis indicates the radius ofcurvature R of the first lens face 11. The vertical axis indicates thecoupling efficiency. In FIG. 29, the horizontal axis indicates theradius of curvature R of the first lens face 11. The vertical axisindicates the transmission factor.

As shown in Table 1, FIG. 28, and FIG. 29, when the radius of curvatureof the first lens face 11 is 0.08 mm, the light beam obtained by thefirst lens face 11 is a collimated light that departs from the scope ofthe present invention. The transmission factor of the laser light La atthe second lens face 12 and the coupling efficiency of the laser lightLa with the optical fiber 5 are values that deteriorate the most duringthe simulation, compared to when foreign matter is not present. A reasonfor this is thought to be that, in the collimated light, the areaoccupancy of foreign matter in relation to the light spot on the secondlens face 12 is high.

On the other hand, when the radius of curvature is 0.10 mm, 0.12 mm, or0.14 mm, the light beam obtained by the first lens surface 11 is aconverged light that spreads wider than the collimated light, or inother words, the light intended in the present invention. Thetransmission factor of the laser light La at the second lens face 12 andthe coupling efficiency of the laser light La with the optical fiber 5are higher than those of the collimated light (less deterioration interms of comparison with when foreign matter is not present). Inparticular, when the radius of curvature is 0.14 mm, the transmissionfactor and the coupling efficiency are the highest. A reason for this isthought to be that, because a converged light that is spread wider thanthe collimated light is obtained, the area occupancy of foreign matterin relation to the light spot on the second lens face 12 can besufficiently reduced.

Example 2

Next, in Example 2, simulation similar to that in Example 1 wasconducted on the type of lens array according to the second embodimentthat includes the reflective surface 23.

In the simulation, the distance between the VCSEL and the first lensfaces 11 is 0.28 mm.

In addition, in the simulation, as shown in FIG. 30, foreign matter thatis φ0.04 mm in size is assumed to be present in a position P₂ (x=0.00mm, y=0.03 mm) that is 0.03 mm from the center (x=0.00 mm, y=0.00 mm) ofthe second lens 12.

Other simulation conditions are similar to those in Example 1.

The results of the simulation are shown in Table 2, below, and FIG. 31and FIG. 32.

TABLE 2 No foreign matter Foreign matter present Coupling Trans-Coupling Trans- efficiency mission efficiency mission R(mm ) Beam shape(dB) factor (%) (dB) factor (%) 0.17 Collimated −0.53 88.5 −1.36 73.2light 0.19 Spread −0.53 88.5 −1.29 74.3 converged light 0.21 Spread−0.53 88.5 −1.12 77.3 converged light 0.23 Spread −0.54 88.3 −1.00 79.4converged light

As shown in Table 2, FIG. 31, and FIG. 32, when the radius of curvatureof the first lens face 11 is 0.17 mm, the light beam obtained by thefirst lens face 11 is a collimated light that departs from the scope ofthe present invention. The transmission factor of the laser light La atthe second lens face 12 and the coupling efficiency of the laser lightLa with the optical fiber 5 are values that deteriorate the most duringthe simulation.

On the other hand, when the radius of curvature is 0.19 mm, 0.21 mm, or0.23 mm, the light beam obtained by the first lens surface 11 is aconverged light that spreads wider than the collimated light, or inother words, the light intended in the present invention. Thetransmission factor of the laser light La at the second lens face 12 andthe coupling efficiency of the laser light La with the optical fiber 5are higher than those of the collimated light

Such tendencies are also likely to be similar when the lens arrayaccording to the third embodiment is used.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments.Various modifications can be made to an extent that the features of thepresent invention are not compromised.

For example, the above-described embodiments are applied to opticaltransmission as optical communication. However, the present inventioncan also be effectively applied to optical reception. When the presentinvention is applied to optical reception, a configuration may be usedin which light-receiving elements, such as photodetectors, are disposedinstead of the light-emitting elements 7 in the positions of thelight-emitting elements 7, and laser light for reception is emitted fromthe end faces 5 a of the optical fibers 5 towards the second lens faces12. In this instance, the second lens faces 12 can be formed into convexlens faces that converge the laser light emitted from the end faces 5 aof the optical fibers with a stronger refractive power than that forcollimation. As a result, even in optical reception, the light spotdiameter on the second lens face 12 can be made larger than the lightspot diameter on the first lens face 11, and the area occupancy offoreign matter/scratches in relation to the light spot on the secondlens face can be reduced. Therefore, the effect foreign matter/scratcheshave on coupling efficiency with the light-receiving element can bereduced.

In addition, the present invention may be applied to opticaltransmission bodies other than the optical fibers 5, such as an opticalwaveguide.

EXPLANATIONS OF LETTERS OR NUMERALS

-   1 sub-assembly-   2 lens array-   3 photoelectric conversion device-   5 optical fiber-   7 light-emitting element-   11 first lens face-   12 second lens face

1. A lens array that is disposed between a photoelectric conversiondevice and an optical transmission body, the photoelectric conversiondevice in which a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements aredisposed in an array, the lens array capable of optically coupling theplurality of photoelectric conversion elements and the opticaltransmission body, the lens array comprising: a plurality of first lensfaces that are disposed on a first surface of a lens array main body onthe photoelectric conversion device side, such as to be arrayed in apredetermined array direction corresponding with the plurality ofphotoelectric conversion elements, and through which light of eachphotoelectric conversion element that couples the plurality ofphotoelectric conversion elements and the optical transmission bodypasses; and a plurality of second lens faces that are disposed on asecond surface of the lens array main body on the optical transmissionbody side, such as to be arrayed along the array direction, and throughwhich the light passes, wherein the first lens face or the second lensface is formed having a face shape that increases the light beamdiameter of the light from the first lens face side towards the secondlens face side, thereby increasing a spot diameter of the light on thesecond lens face to be larger than a spot diameter of the light on thefirst lens face.
 2. The lens array according to claim 1, wherein: thephotoelectric conversion element is a light-emitting element; and thefirst lens face is formed into a convex lens face or a planar lens facethat converges the light emitted from the light-emitting element with aweaker refractive power than that for collimation, or a concave lensface that disperses the light of the light-emitting element.
 3. The lensarray according to claim 1, wherein: the second surface is disposedperpendicularly to the first surface; and a reflective surface isdisposed between the first lens faces and the second lens faces, thereflective surface reflecting the light that has entered from either thefirst lens face side or the second lens face side towards the other ofthe first lens face side or the second lens face side.
 4. The lens arrayaccording to claim 3, wherein: the photoelectric conversion device isthat in which at least one light-receiving element is disposed as thephotoelectric conversion element, the light-receiving element receivingmonitor light for monitoring the light emitted from at least one of theplurality of light-emitting elements; and the lens array furtherincludes at least one third lens face that is disposed on the firstsurface and emits the monitor light that has entered from the inner sideof the lens array main body towards the light-receiving element, and anoptical control unit that is disposed on an optical path between thereflective surface and the second lens faces in the lens array mainbody, on which the light of each light-emitting element that has beenreflected by the reflective surface towards the second lens face side isincident, and that performs control such that the incident light of eachlight-emitting element is reflected at a predetermined reflection factorand advanced towards the third lens face side, and transmitted at apredetermined transmission factor and advanced towards the second lensface side, and at this time, reflects the light of at least one of theplurality of light-emitting elements as the monitor light.
 5. The lensarray according to claim 1, wherein the second surface is disposedopposing the first surface; and the optical axis of the first lens faceand the optical axis of the second lens face are disposed on a sameline.
 6. An optical module comprising: the lens array according to claim1; and a photoelectric conversion device in which a plurality ofphotoelectric conversion elements are disposed in an array.
 7. The lensarray according to claim 2, wherein: the second surface is disposedperpendicularly to the first surface; and a reflective surface isdisposed between the first lens faces and the second lens faces, thereflective surface reflecting the light that has entered from either thefirst lens face side or the second lens face side towards the other ofthe first lens face side or the second lens face side.
 8. The lens arrayaccording to claim 7, wherein: the photoelectric conversion device isthat in which at least one light-receiving element is disposed as thephotoelectric conversion element, the light-receiving element receivingmonitor light for monitoring the light emitted from at least one of theplurality of light-emitting elements; and the lens array furtherincludes at least one third lens face that is disposed on the firstsurface and emits the monitor light that has entered from the inner sideof the lens array main body towards the light-receiving element, and anoptical control unit that is disposed on an optical path between thereflective surface and the second lens faces in the lens array mainbody, on which the light of each light-emitting element that has beenreflected by the reflective surface towards the second lens face side isincident, and that performs control such that the incident light of eachlight-emitting element is reflected at a predetermined reflection factorand advanced towards the third lens face side, and transmitted at apredetermined transmission factor and advanced towards the second lensface side, and at this time, reflects the light of at least one of theplurality of light-emitting elements as the monitor light.
 9. The lensarray according to claim 2, wherein the second surface is disposedopposing the first surface; and the optical axis of the first lens faceand the optical axis of the second lens face are disposed on a sameline.